San Rafael Fire Department gets new ambulances, gurney system

A new hydraulic gurney system is going to make it easier for San Rafael's paramedics and firefighters to lift patients in the fire department's refurbished ambulances.

San Rafael Fire Chief Christopher Gray said the new gurney is one of three that will be installed on the department's refurbished ambulances — two of which are still being rebuilt in Iowa.

"It not only ensures a safer ride for the patient, but it's also safer for firefighters and paramedics," Gray said.

The gurneys raise patients in and out of the ambulance with the mere touch of a button. The gurney legs fold up underneath the cot, and the equipment slides and locks into a frame on the ambulance.

The hydraulic system prevents emergency personnel from having to bend and lift the gurneys, minimizing the risk for back injuries.

Gray said the department's pleased with its new gadget.

"It's becoming extremely popular with the firefighters," Gray said.

The hydraulic gurneys, priced at $4,800 each, are part of an effort to refurbish two 2007 Ford ambulances and replace one 2004 International ambulance. A city staff report from May 2012 states the Ford ambulances have been mechanically unreliable and the Independent ambulance was scheduled for replacement in 2009.

Instead of purchasing three new ambulances, the fire department is taking the bodies from two of its ambulances and placing them on 2012 Chevrolet diesel chassis. A third refurbished body is being purchased from a dealer in Iowa to be placed on the same type of chassis.

Gray said the refurbishments will save the city money, as new ambulances cost about $178,000 each.

"We purchased the refurbished ones for less than half of that," Gray said.

The city is spending $258,888 on the three refurbished ambulances and $14,400 on the gurney systems.

One ambulance is already in service and the two others are expected to be ready in February.